Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger says now isn't the time to turn away thousands of Syrian refugees.

Selinger says Canada has made a big commitment to bring in 25,000 of them by year's end.

He says security screening must be put in place, but cancelling the plan would be inhumane.

Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall has said that fast-tracking claims could undermine the screening process, so he is calling on the federal government to suspend its refugee plan.

Selinger says people in Manitoba are excited to welcome newcomers who will make a great contribution to Canada's future.

Opposition Leader Brian Pallister, saying the country can deal with security concerns, also dismisses the idea of holding off on the federal government's plan.